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MIAMI-DADE GAY & LESBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Have you been to the new LGBT Visitor Center, sponsored by MetLife, on Miami Beach?Read the article on page 17 and stop by for a visit!

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Apr. – June ‘12 | CLARITY [ 3

We are proud to present our latest edition of CLARITY Business Magazine (our 19th edition) which happens to coincide with the latest celebration of Miami Beach Gay Pride.

Pride events are an opportunity for a community to celebrate diversity and openness, and nowhere else on this planet is more diverse than the community we have here in Greater Miami. Our cultural richness and our acceptance of others who are different from us is what makes living here so very special. I am particularly proud of how much our Chamber reflects the community at large. The MDGLCC has a great balance of both women and men. Our membership roster also reflects the ethnic diversity of the general population.

But particularly, we are especially grateful that so many of our allied businesses call MDGLCC home as reflected by over 45% of our 540 business members not being LGBT owned/operated.

MDGLCC is proud to have supported each Miami Beach Gay Pride event since its inception. As a community, this event reminds us that we can create great things and are strongest when we work together. Success is not given… it is earned. Congratulations to the 2012 Miami Beach Gay Pride Committee for yet another successful celebration. Together in Pride!

Steve Adkins

President’s Message

Photography by Ginny Dixon

MGMC-0097 Clarity - April_Layout 1 3/8/12 11:03 AM Page 1

Saint Martha – Yamaha2011-2012 Concert SeriesPaul Posnak, Founding Artistic Director

TO PURCHASE TICKETSVisit www.saintmartha.tix.com or call 1-800-595-4849

or purchase at church office or at doorFor more information 305-458-0111 or 305-751-0005

$1Meet the artists a fter- on ert re eption in The Atr , y kets.

SVET STOYANOV & HAMMER/KLAVIER –

and , piano and

This concert is sponsored by Peggy Rolando.

Saturday, April 28, 2012 at 7:30 p.m.

SVET STOYANOVwith HAMMER/KLAVIER

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1st Quarter Recap

LGBT Pride in South America

Chamber Information

Explore/EXPO

The Orange Gala

LBGT Visitor’s Center

White House Guest

State of Our Community

MBGP Impact

Upcoming Events

Legacy

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HOTBOX Did You Know?There is more in store for you at ClarityMag.com. More phenomenal photos. More news and views you can use from MDGLCC member produced articles. And, more lively links to winning websites too. More is good. ClarityMag.com has more!

Share your views online, and join the community conversation! ClarityMag.com

4 ] CLARITY | Apr. – June ‘12

EXPLORE / EXPOOn Sunday, February 12, from noon to 5 p.m. close to 100 businesses and over 700 attendees participated in the “4th Annual Explore/EXPO” put together by the MDGLCC. Visitors to the “4th Annual Explore/EXPO” were able to stroll two floors of the dramatic Moore Building in the Design District and speak with representatives from a diverse cross-section of businesses, including advocacy organizations, entertainment companies, financial services, health services, hospitality groups, real estate professionals, retail products, non-profit organizations and travel firms — especially travel firms.

Official sponsors of the event included the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, The Miami Herald, Miami.com and the LGBT Visitor Center.

New to the “Explore/EXPO” was its association with the GLBT Travel Expo whose mission is to connect GLBT travelers with gay-friendly airlines, hotels, destinations and related travel services. In addition to the expo booths and free giveaways from many of the businesses, MDGLCC hosted a free raffle drawing for attendees with prizes ranging from a pair of LAN Airlines travel vouchers from Miami to South America, three nights at the Bolongo Bay Resort in St. Thomas, and two nights at the Palms Hotel in Kissimmee. There was also a fashion show by Swinging Richards dancers modeling Creative Male’s fashions.

Following “Explore/EXPO,” attendees and exhibitors were invited to the Alberto Linero Gallery for a post-event reception featuring art, wine and hors d’oeuvres. Alberto Linero Gallery presents a refreshing spin on contemporary and modern art, showcasing mixed media works, sculpture and painting.

Jorge Richa Marketing & Programming Director MDGLCC 305-673-4440 [email protected]

READ MORE AT CLARITYMAG.COM

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Proud of my JourneyPride means something different to each of us. To me pride is most often felt after a journey. This could be putting in a hard day’s work, fighting for equal rights or making it through Publix at 6 p.m. without losing my cool.

Last year I took a leap, quit my job and started the journey of creating a website business. At the time I was beaming with pride of my decision. With every new website my pride expanded but it wasn’t because of my accomplishments or hard work. It was because of the unconditional support from my family, friends and community members who made it all possible. These people are what I am now most proud of.

Whatever pride means to you, stop and take a second to think about the different steps, people and accomplishments that are part of your journey. Then you will see it’s not what you are proud of, but who.

SCOTT BADER Founder, Producer Triverden Creative [email protected] 786-309-7542 MDGLCC Member

HOTBOX

The architecturally amazing Moore Building, Miami Design District, was the location for the 4th Annual Explore / EXPO, 2012

Photo courtesy of Bridge House Events

Winter Party • March Miami Beach Gay Pride • April Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival • April /May Aqua Girl • May Sizzle Miami • May Miami Beach Bruthaz Conference • July White Party • November

MiamiandBeaches.com

Every encounter. Every moment. Every escapade.No place stirs passion like Miami.

Go to MiamiLGBT.com for a free LGBT Vacation Guide.

©Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau — The Official Destination Marketing Organization for Greater Miami and the Beaches. CS-00722

00722-CT-Girls Jumping_Clarity.indd 1 3/16/12 11:47 AM


The LGBT Visitor Center, located conveniently in the historic Old City Hall building at 1130 Washington Avenue, was honored to host his recent lecture.

Mr. Hochberg’s message to the audience: The Export-Import Bank plans to double U.S. exports in five years.

Under his leadership in fiscal year 2011, Ex-Im Bank for the third-straight year set export finance records in a number of key areas. Overall financing for the first time exceeded $32 billion and supported $40.6 billion in exports and

approximately 290,000 export-related American jobs at more than 3,600 U.S. companies. Small business financing rose over 70 percent from $3.3 billion

in fiscal year 2008 to $6 billion in fiscal year 2011. Renewable energy export financing more than doubled to $721 million over the previous fiscal year.

During Hocherg’s tenure, the Bank has increased its focus on customers, both foreign buyers and U.S. exporters. It is seeking new markets for U.S. goods and services in emerging economies

with growing infrastructure needs, including Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Turkey, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Nigeria and South Africa. Hochberg has also worked to expand the global footprint of key domestic industries in which U.S. exporters have a comparative advantage. These include renewable energy, construction and farm equipment, medical technology, agriculture, and avionics. In addition, he has streamlined processes, cut transaction times and introduced innovative new financial products.

Mr. Hochberg is the only openly gay cabinet member in the Obama Administration. A native of the greater New York metropolitan area, Hochberg received his undergraduate degree from New York University and his MBA from Columbia University. Hochberg’s partner is writer Tom Healy.

Fred Hochberg is Chairman and President of the Export-Import Bank of the United States and one of the highest ranking business leaders in the Obama Administration.

White House Guest at LGBT Visitor Center

HOTBOXSteve Rothaus – Cover Photo

Reporter/Photographer Steve Rothaus covers gay and lesbian issues for The Miami Herald. His daily blog, Steve Rothaus’ Gay South Florida, is one of The Herald’s most popular, read by thousands of readers each week. He is the only reporter employed by a major U.S. newspaper to exclusively cover the LGBT community. Steve received the MDGLCC - Wachovia Bank (A Wells Fargo Company) “Business Person of the Year” Award (2010), Equality Florida’s “Voice for Equality” Award (2012) and the “Community Service” Award from the South Florida International Press (2012).

Stratton Pollitzer (Deputy Director, Equality Florida), Steve Adkins, Fred Hochberg, Chance Mitchell (COO, NGLCC), Justin Nelson (CEO, NGLCC)


Meeting Space AvailableLooking for a comfortable, safe place to hold your next board meeting, business meeting, whatever meeting?

Consider the NEW LGBT Michael Aller – “Mr. Miami Beach” – Community Conference Room, located in the NEW LGBT Visitor Center, 1130 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, in the heart of South Beach.

Call 305-397-8914 or e-mail [email protected] for rental information and availability.

MDGLCC members receive first hour free, with additional rental rates negotiated.

1st Quarter 2012 Recap“Taste of Miami” Fundraiser

4th Annual Explore / EXPO

“State of Our Community” Luncheon

Business Builders Luncheon @ Seasons 52

Business Builders Luncheon @ Anacapri

Business Builders Luncheon @ Steve Haas City Hall, The Restaurant

GALLA Luncheon @ Truluck’s

GALLA Luncheon @ Morton’s Steakhouse

State of the Union Business Leaders Roundtable

Gay & Lesbian Tour of South Beach

“Upper Eastsiders” @ 55th Street Station Networking Event

Sandpiper’s Networker over Cocktails @ Escopazzo

Sandpiper’s Networker over Cocktails @ Hudson Chiropractic & Lincoln Road Dermatology

Women’s Empowerment Lunch @ Epic Hotel

Upcoming Events 2nd Quarter 2012

Business Builders Luncheons (1st & 4th Thursday of each month)

GALLA Luncheons (or) Networker Mixer (mid Wednesday of each month)

Sandpiper’s Networker (mid Wednesday of each month)

MDGLCC Networker (monthly)

Upper Eastsiders Networking Event (monthly)

Women’s Empowerment Lunch (quarterly)

Support Our Cultural Arts Members (quarterly)

Gay & Lesbian Tour of South Beach (last Saturday of each month)

11th Annual Gala & Awards Celebration (June 23rd, Hilton Miami Downtown)

Check

www.gaybizmiami.com for updates and details

“After venturing with other chambers of commerce in the South Florida area for many years it is the MDGLCC who has proven to be the one to be a member of. We are delighted and proud to be associated with such a fine organization. The events and business opportunities derived from them are second to none. We at OCG & Associates, Inc. highly recommend that any business, either established or new become a member and experience the difference this great chamber can bring and provide to your organization.”

OSCAR M. CARTAGENA President OCG & Associates, Inc. MDGLCC Member

HOTBOXMember Testimonial

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Providing peace of mind. That’s what we pride ourselves in.

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Northern Trust banks are members FDIC. © 2012 Northern Trust Corporation.

nt1008_ClarityMag_2012.indd 1 3/21/12 11:25 AM


On Thursday, February 9th, MDGLCC presented its 1st Annual STATE OF OUR COMMUNITY Luncheon that featured four area mayors at the Hilton Miami Downtown, a MDGLCC member hotel. The focus of the “State Of Our Community” luncheon was on the most important legislative issues, with particular attention to those issues which impact the LGBT Community. The four mayors featured were: The Honorable Carlos

A. Gimenez, Mayor, Miami-Dade County; The Honorable Tomás Regalado, Mayor, City of Miami; The Honorable Matti Herrera-Bower, Mayor, City of Miami Beach, and The Honorable Jim Cason, Mayor, City of Coral Gables. CJ Ortuno, Executive Director, SAVE Dade and Stratton Pollitzer, Deputy Director, Equality Florida began the proceedings with a summary of the local/state LGBT Legislative items. A Q&A session closed the presentation.

“It is important for the Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce to help create a dialogue between our community’s advocacy goals with business leaders in South Florida,” said Steve Adkins, President and CEO of MDGLCC. “It is an honor to have 4 such distinguished mayors attending our inaugural event and, we plan to schedule this “State of Our Community” luncheon to be an annual part of our outreach platform.”

Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber Of Commerce (MDGLCC) will honor corporate and individual leaders of the Miami-Dade LGBT community at its 11th Annual Gala Awards Celebration, beginning at 6:00pm on Saturday, June 23, at the Hilton Miami Downtown, 1601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. The honorees were selected for their long-term commitment to fostering diversity, as well as for their efforts in contributing to the overall well being and quality of life in South Florida.

•“BusinessoftheYear”–IKEA•“BusinessPersonoftheYear”–STEVE HAAS•“Non-ProfitOrganizationoftheYear”–MIAMI BEACH VISITOR & CONVENTION AUTHORITY•SpecialRecognitionAward–DANIEL SPRING

Right: Colorful past galas of blue, green and red.

“ You are incredible. The First Annual ‘State of Our Community’ Luncheon was superb!! The speakers were good and engaged and to have 4 Mayors of the largest municipalities (except Hialeah) appear and be positive was most incredible. THANK YOU!!!”

Richard Milstein Akerman Senterfitt MDGLCC MEMBER

“ You did such a magnificent job. Congratulations! You all looked great on Channel 4, as well. Thanks for doing all the great things you do.”

Marty Davis Legal Solutions Group

MDGLCC MEMBER

Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce to Honor Community Leaders at 11th Annual Gala Awards Celebration

“State of our Community” Luncheon, Extraordinary

FOR MORE INFORMATION & TO BUY TICKETS VISIT

CLARITYMAG.COM OR SCAN THIS WITH YOUR SMARTPHONE

Providing peace of mind. That’s what we pride ourselves in.

As a trusted financial partner with a history of stability, unsurpassed service and integrity, we are committed to helping you navigate the unique financial and estate planning complexities facing LGBT individuals and same-sex couples. To learn more, call William P. Murphy at 305-789-1536 or visit northerntrust.com/lgbt.

Investment Management | Trust Administration & Estate Settlement | Guardianship | Tax Strategy

700 Brickell Avenue • Miami, Florida 33131

Northern Trust banks are members FDIC. © 2012 Northern Trust Corporation.

nt1008_ClarityMag_2012.indd 1 3/21/12 11:25 AM

An extraordinary event with four Mayors and two LGBT community leaders.


South America is home to many unique attractions that you can’t find anywhere else in the world — the culture, the food, the people, the exotic locations, and the diversity. South America is also home to many wonderful celebrations, including some of the largest and most obscure LGBT Pride festivals. From Sao Paulo, Brazil to the jungles of the Amazon rainforest, gay pride festivals take place throughout South American in almost every country.

Let’s go on a journey to discover a few of South America’s prominent and ground-breaking gay pride festivals. We’ll even tell you how to get there!

To begin, the Sao Paulo Gay Pride Parade is the largest of its kind on the planet. The Sao Paulo Gay Pride or Parada do Orgulho Gay GLBT de Sao Paulo, in Portuguese, has grown from

2,000 participants in 1997 to four million people in 2011. Sao Paulo made the Guinness Book of Records in 2006 for the world’s biggest Gay Pride celebration. This year, the event will be held on June 10, 2012 with over 4.5 million people expected.

The entire month of June in Sao Paulo is Pride month and the city will host visitors from all over the world. For the upcoming 2012 parade, the theme will celebrate Brazil’s many victories on gay marriage and same-sex rights in Brazil.

In the neighboring country of Argentina, there is also a large and popular LGBT Pride festival. Every November in Buenos Aires there is the “Marcha del Orgullo” on the first Saturday of the month. Thousands march in celebration of the country’s liberal gay rights policies. In fact, Argentina is often considered the

most gay-friendly country in South America and was the first nation in Latin America to legalize same-sex marriage. Visitors from all over the world come every year to experience one of the more unique and progressive gay pride events of South America.

Moving north, Lima, Peru is home to a gay pride celebration every June. In 2011, this Pride celebrated its 10th anniversary and drew hundreds of people for the celebratory day. Although small in comparison to neighboring Brazil, the event is unique in that it’s organized by the Homosexual Movement of Lima, which is the oldest gay organization in Latin America. In 2011, Lima Mayor Susana Villaran waved to supporters from a colorful float as she led a small Gay Pride parade down the streets of the Peruvian capital. Although a small gay pride festival, it’s definitely considered to be a more politically charged festival than most garnering international attention.

In the small Amazon town of Benjamin Constant, 2011 marked an important milestone—its first gay pride celebration. The Brazilian town, with approximately 30,000 people from multiple ethnic backgrounds, boasts a small but thriving gay community. This is an example of how progressive South America

is in some corners and a reminder that gay rights are spreading to the furthest corners of the world.

Far from being an isolated event, the local gay pride celebration echoes a larger trend across the Amazon. More than 10 small and large towns along the Amazon River have also held successful gay pride celebrations, including Manaus, Brazil celebrating its 12th gay pride event in 2011, Iquitos, Peru celebrating its sixth and Tabatinga, a military town across the river from Benjamin Contstant celebrating its fourth.

Diversity can be found in every corner of South America and the same can be said for the various gay pride celebrations. Some are more celebratory and festival-like, such as in Sao Paulo, while others are more political in nature, such as defending transgender rights in Lima. It’s safe to say though, there is a celebration to experience for all – no matter your background or interest.

Kati Mandakovic LAN’s Leisure Market Director LAN.com/diversity 1-866- I FLY LAN

LGBT Pride Festivals Draw Visitors to South America

South America is home to many unique attractions that you can’t find anywhere else in the world – the culture, the food, the people, the exotic locations, and the diversity. South America is also home to many wonderful celebrations, including some of the largest and most obscure LGBT Pride festivals. From Sao Paulo, Brazil to the jungles of the Amazon rainforest, gay pride festivals take place throughout South American in almost every country.


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For more information, visit www.jhsmiami.org.


Sherry and Alice have been together 29 years and do not consider themselves exceptional. Actually they describe themselves as boringly normal. Like so many gay couples of their generation, their commitment evolved and they do not have an anniversary date and have not experienced the public celebration that usually occurs on anniversaries.

The first Pride celebration was so special for them because it was a very public acknowledgement of their 26 year relationship and particularly amazing because of the 20,000 + cheering people lining the parade route calling the names of each legacy couple as they passed.

Sherry and Alice expressed surprise that there were so many legacy couples. Many of these couples were meeting each other for the first time and found the experience affirming of their own paths and for the entire LGBT community. Legacy couples talked to each other about their feelings and about their hope that the path would be easier for the next generations.

During the parade there were moments that were particularly poignant. One young couple yelled, “We want to be you in 20 years.” Another common question was “Tell us how to do if?” Many just said “Thanks.”

Honoring the legacy couples is a community validation of not only love but of the work and commitment that goes into sustaining a relationship. Some of the younger members of the LGBT community were curious the challenges of gay relationships such as family responses, and reactions in the workplace.

“We were thrilled to support the Pride celebration four years ago Sherry’s son David and his partner Sean drove our car in the parade and made the event that much more poignant. We had no idea what to expect and we NEVER would have imagined 20,000 people cheering and calling our names. As we rode down Ocean Drive we waved to couples of all types and lots of children. One of the most touching memories (Sherry still cries when she tells the story) of young woman saying we inspired them.”

Rarely is there a time for introspection about the factors that facilitate the survival of a long-term relationship such as commitment, compromise, communication, caring and common values.

As a Board member for Pridelines Youth Services, being a Legacy Couple has a deeper meaning and significance than proudly acknowledging my 24-year relationship with my partner Greg,” said Richard Murry. “By walking with the Pridelines youth, instead of being on the Legacy Couple float, we are able to interact with these young people throughout the

Parade as role models for lasting and committed relationships. At a time in their lives when a ‘relationship’ lasts all of three weeks, and headlines abound with youth suicides and homelessness, we are living proof for these kids that a happy relationship can also be a reality for them.

I have been asked how it felt when I and my partner Tom sat on the back of my convertible holding a sign, and not a small sign either, proclaiming our love for each other in the Miami Beach Gay Pride Parade. We will be celebrating our 30th anniversary this April.

It felt surreal is the best way I can put it. You must remember I came from a simple Italian family in the very macho section of Brooklyn, New York and for me to be in this relationship for one thing was and is hard to believe, but to be out in public sitting on a vehicle holding a sign with, get this, my cousin and my Aunt giving a new meaning of the words “Tutte Familia”, in the front of the car voicing their support was truly surreal.

Sitting on my convertible I could not fathom this moment if it wasn’t for people like Rosa Parks saying, “NO,” and not getting off her seat on a bus because of the color of her skin; or those wonderful drag queens in Stonewall, on the day of Judy Garland’s funeral, showing the NYPD that high heels hurt; and having famous people like Ellen DeGeneres and Harvey Milk come out of the closet with so much to lose. So now I, the little Italian from Brooklyn, have a responsibility to the many LGBT youth. Like those before me, making it possible for me to, not only think about being in a Gay Parade but, actually publically proclaiming my love for Tom.

LEGACY

Sherry Roberts & Dr. Alice Randolph

John Bariletti & Tom Camerlengo

Richard H. Murry & Greg Griffin

29YEARStogether

24YEARStogether

30YEARStogether


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24464MG_CLARITY 3/24/09 6:20 PM Page 1

With superior service, Manzanilla Schwartz Law Group advocates on behalf of the residential and commercial property policyholder. We work with the leading public adjusters in the industry, who are licensed, bonded and/or insured, with a combined minimum 10 years of experience. Our goal is to maximize your settlement by handling matters every step of the way. No matter the size of your insurance claim, we have the staying power to fight until the end for you. As your risk consultant, we value our relationship with you, now and in the future.

If you have property damage, please call our office at 305.444.1887 or email [email protected] to find out how our insurance claim counselors can assist you.

Our guiding principle is to treat home and business owners the way we wanted to be treated when we were clients.

770 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Suite #101 • Coral Gables, FL 33134 • (305) 444-1887 • [email protected]

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Located conveniently in the historic Old City Hall building at 1130 Washington Avenue, the Visitor Center is fast becoming your one-stop destination for information, publications, wireless internet access, LGBT curious and weekly/monthly community events.

The LGBT Visitor Center can also assist with any travel needs such as hotel and excursion reservations, dining and attraction recommendations as well as being a community resource to assist you and your friends & family during your “fun-cation.”

We are excited about some of the great initiatives that we have begun and are striving to launch.

We have just closed our 2nd art Exhibit, “Listen Out”, a project for Gay Black Pride and Black History month. Our first was “This Art is SO Gay”, which opened during Sleepless Night and ran thru Art Basel, giving our South Florida LGBT artists & cultural scene an international view. We have recently partnered with Arts United to have 5 – 6 exhibits each year. Check out GoGayMiami.com to see what is currently on exhibit.

You may have also noticed that we are hosting monthly Career Workshops in conjunction with the LBT Career Enhancement Forums. Topics such as Resume Writing, Starting your own Business, Unemployment and Dressing for Success have already been addressed.

Opening soon is our computer center – Plug-In @ The Center. This will allow residents & visitors access to e-mail, web resources, job searches, etc. And there is always free Wi-Fi, so dropping in between meetings to check and answer e-mails is welcomed & encouraged.

And most importantly, our new GoGayMiami.com website is home to the new Community Calendar. Our local LGBT organizations can enter their own public events into the calendar for locals & visitors alike. This not only provides added exposure & marketing for them but also serves as a resource

as organizations plan their schedules and visitors plan their vacations.

The Visitor Center is funded and operated by the MDGLCC Foundation, Inc., the non-profit arm of the Miami Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. Chamber membership includes restaurants, nightclubs, realtors, retail operators, municipalities and more. Stop by the Visitor Center and pick-up a copy of our membership directory. At the Chamber we promote “S.O.M.A.,” which means Support Our Members Always, and we hope you will too!

For more information about the Visitor Center, to support the center with a tax-deductable contribution or to inquire about space rental, please contact Cindy Brown, Executive Director at 305.397.8914 or [email protected]

Cindy Brown Executive Director 305.397.8914 [email protected] www.GoGayMiami.com

An LGBT Visitor Center we can all take PRIDE in visiting Have you been to the new LGBT Visitor Center, (sponsored by MetLife) on Miami Beach?

It was a real pleasure chatting with you during our recent visit to South Beach. It was our good fortune to wander into the Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and find you there. It was a real pleasure chatting with you and hearing a bit about your time at the Guthrie Theater. Michael and I had a wonderful time in Key West and South Beach, but South Beach was definitely a highlight, particularly the Art Deco Tour.

Thanks again for your gracious hospitality, and please let us know if your travel plans take you to Minneapolis!

Sincerely, Mr. & Mrs. Morrie Hartman Minneapolis, MN 55419

With superior service, Manzanilla Schwartz Law Group advocates on behalf of the residential and commercial property policyholder. We work with the leading public adjusters in the industry, who are licensed, bonded and/or insured, with a combined minimum 10 years of experience. Our goal is to maximize your settlement by handling matters every step of the way. No matter the size of your insurance claim, we have the staying power to fight until the end for you. As your risk consultant, we value our relationship with you, now and in the future.

If you have property damage, please call our office at 305.444.1887 or email [email protected] to find out how our insurance claim counselors can assist you.

Our guiding principle is to treat home and business owners the way we wanted to be treated when we were clients.

770 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Suite #101 • Coral Gables, FL 33134 • (305) 444-1887 • [email protected]

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Since the first year, MBGP has grown consistently and last year attracted more than 35,000 people from Miami-Dade, across Florida, and internationally to Ocean Drive and Lummus Park. According to many City sources, MBGP is now the largest, single-day event in Miami Beach.

For MBGP 2012, the Board of Directors expects more than 60,000 people will attend from all over the world due to extending MBGP from a one-day to a four-day event which includes new activities, cultural events, and parties starting on Thursday April 13th and culminating with the traditional Parade, Festival, and Entertainment Extravaganza on Sunday, April 15th. All information related to MBGP 2012 and schedule of events can be found at www.MiamiBeachGayPride.com.

The “renaissance” of Miami Beach often is attributed, in part, to the migration of a large LGBT community to Miami Beach over the past twenty years. The community came to live here, to build a diverse community of open-minded people, and to create and invest in new businesses that contribute to the tax base for the City of Miami Beach. And so, the creation of MBGP and participation by Miami Beach government officials, local businesses, nonprofits, churches, and the community at large is a wonderful way to celebrate the contributions of the LGBT community with the greater community at large during a festival for all to enjoy.

MBGP is held each year in April for three main reasons.

• TocomplementandnotcompeteagainstotherlargeMiami Beach LGBT related events that directly benefit the Miami Beach community and include, Winter Party produced by The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force in March, Aqua Girl produced by The Aqua Girl Foundation in May, and The White Party produced by Care Resource in November.

• Tonotcompeteagainstthenumerousother“LGBTPrides” traditionally held in June in other major USA cities, such as Boston, New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco.

• MBGP’sdateensuresthatlocalbusinessesandhotelsbenefit from people traveling from all across Florida, the USA, and the world to Miami Beach during what is traditionally the tail-end of the “high season.”

In essence, MBGP is an important and festive event that showcases the vibrant and diverse community of Miami Beach and greater Miami-Dade County. MBGP is fun for families and people from all walks of life, and it is good for businesses and local non-profits alike.

MBGP directly benefits the business and non-profit community of both Miami Beach and Miami-Dade County in many ways. Over the past three years more than 400 unique business vendors of all sorts participated in the Festival, selling their goods, food, and services to MBGP attendees. MBGP 2012 will have more than 150 business vendors selling everything from food and beverages, bikes, skateboards, jewelry, sunglasses, and clothing to dental, medical, holistic, real estate services, and more.

Of equal importance is that for 2012, MBGP will provide a venue for non-profits to have exposure to more than 60,000 people providing them an opportunity to educate our community on all on the important work that these nonprofits — LGBT, straight, and allied — are doing to help both the Miami Beach and Greater Miami-Dade communities.

Beyond the cultural benefit to Miami Beach, MBGP has a direct positive economic impact to the greater Miami Beach community. Each year this benefit can be calculated using various metrics including: increased sales, where the associated sales tax benefits Miami Beach; Miami Beach Police estimates of total attendees; and hotel occupancy rates. According to police estimates, each year MBGP grows to new heights with more than 60,000 people expected to attend MBGP 2012. Not having sales totals available for all businesses to calculate sales tax contributions to Miami Beach, I instead provide a short analysis from data provided by the Director of Planning & Research at the Great Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau office. This analysis provided below shows the positive economic benefit MBGP has on the Miami Beach community and the potential MBGP has for continued growth and success.

We look forward to seeing you at all of the wonderful cultural and festive events during Miami Beach Gay Pride 2012 in support of the vibrant and diverse Miami Beach community we all love so much.

All details about events during Miami Beach Gay Pride 2012 can be found at www.MiamiBeachGayPride.com.

With Pride, Chip Arndt Board of Directors | Treasurer MIAMI BEACH GAY PRIDE 2012

MBGP ImpactMiami Beach Gay Pride (“MBGP”) began in 2009 at the suggestion of the Miami Beach LGBT Business Enhancement Committee, an advisory committee to the City of Miami Beach Mayor and Commission’s office on LGBT-related issues, and was enacted by a directive from Mayor Matti Bower.

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Helping to create safe schools, inclusive workplaces, and financial successThe LGBT community has come a long way in the last 25 years, and Wells Fargo has been right there. Our commitment goes back to 1987, when we added sexual orientation to our non-discrimination policy. Since then, we’ve contributed to LGBT organizations, lent our support to anti-bullying efforts, and continued to foster a culture of equality in the workplace. Then, in 2011, Wells Fargo Advisors was the first in the industry to have Financial Advisors earn the Accredited Domestic Partnership Advisor℠ designation. We are only as successful as the communities we serve. Here’s to the next quarter-century.

wellsfargo.com/lgbt

Celebrating 25 years of commitment to the LGBT community

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Wells Fargo Advisors is the trade name used by two separate registered broker-dealers:Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, and Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC, Members SIPC, non-bank affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company.Accredited Domestic Partnership Advisor℠ is a service mark of the College for Financial Planning®© 2012 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. (711540_04608)

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Economic impact analysis Miami Beach Gay Pride has on Miami Beach Hotel Occupancy:

Assumptions:• MiamiBeachGayPridewasmarketedasaone-day

Saturday event for 2009 and 2010

• MiamiBeachGayPridewasmarketedasaone-daySaturday event for 2011 with ancillary events happening two days before hand leading up to Pride

• Mostoftheanalysisbelowtakesintoconsiderationroomoccupancy starting on the Thursday leading into each Pride weekend, and noting that only 2011 was marketed as a three-day get away

• MiamiBeachGayPride2012ismarketedasathree-dayget away leading into weekend event with Pride now on Sunday

2008 - Year Before Miami Beach Gay Pride (“MBGP”) Started and partial Recession Year

• Thurs.–Sat.ofsameweekasMBGP2009=avg.occupancy rate 82.8%

2009 - First Year of Miami Beach Gay Pride and in a Recession Year

Summary Analysis: All weeks were off compared to prior year due to the recession, BUT MBGP Weekend was better (less off) than the other weeks in April.

• Thurs.–Sat.leadingintoMBGP2009=avg.occupancyrate of 76.0% a (6.8%) decrease from 2008

• ComparingThurs.–Sat.twoweekspriortoMBGP2009weekend=avg.occupancyrateDROPofffrom2008forthree day period was (10.3%)

• ComparingWed.–Sat.weekleadingintoMBGP2009weekend=avg.occupancyrateDROPofffrom2008forthreedayperiodwasONLY(6.8%)=+3.5%positivedelta(INCREASE) for this three day period compared to prior two weeks’ three day period drop offs from to 2008

2010 - Second Year of Miami Beach Gay Pride and still in a Recession Year

Summary Analysis: All weeks showed increase from prior year and the Saturday of MBGP had amazing +9.6% increase fromprioryear=oneofthetopfiveincreasesforthemonthof April

• Thurs.–Sat.leadingintoMBGP2010=avg.occupancyrateof80.3%=+4.3%increasefrom2009

• ComparingThurs.–Sat.twoweekspriorleadingintoMBGP2010weekend=avg.occupancyrateINCREASEfrom 2009 for three day period was +4.2%

• ComparingThurs.–Sat.weekleadingintoMBGP2010weekend=avg.occupancyrateINCREASEfrom2009forthreedayperiodwas+6.4%=+2.2%positivedelta(INCREASE) for this three day period compared to prior two weeks’ three day period increase from to 2009

2011 - Third Year of Miami Beach Gay Pride

Summary Analysis: All weeks showed increase from prior year and, while the threeday period leading into MBGP did not increase as much as prior two week three day periods in April, the three day period leading into MBGP was the HIGHEST occupancy rate for the same three day period over 2008, 2009, and 2010.

• Thurs.–Sat.leadingintoMBGP2010=avg.occupancyrateof84.2%=+3.9%increasefrom2011

• ComparingThurs.–Sat.twoweekspriorleadingintoMBGP2010weekend=avg.occupancyrateINCREASEfrom 2010 for three day period was +7.2%

• ComparingThurs.–Sat.weekleadingintoMBGP2010weekend=avg.occupancyrateINCREASEfrom2010forthreedayperiodwas+4.8%=(2.4%)negativedelta(DECREASE) for this three day period compared to prior two weeks’ three day period increase from to 2010...HOWEVER... THIS WAS STILL AND INCREASE AND...

• OccupancyRateforThurs.–Sat.threedayperiodleadingintoMBGP2011averaged84.2%=THEHIGHESTthreedayThurs. – Sat. occupancy rate average over the period 2008, 2009, and 2010 and +1.5% HIGHER than the same three day Thurs. – Sat. period in 2008 (when there was no Pride)!

Analysis below provided by Chip Arndt, Board of Directors and Treasurer of Miami Beach Gay Pride 2012 and does not represent the views or opinions of any other member of the Board of Directors of Miami Beach Pride but for Chip Arndt.

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Clarity Business Magazine in your virtual world – www.ClarityMag.com

Now you can access all the same great articles, news and views by Chamber members anywhere, anytime AND forward information to anyone. Access made easy. Spread the word and find even more clarity.

Contact Joe Robertson, [email protected], to find out about incredible new online advertising opportunities combined with traditional print media. It provides the best of all worlds!

The Membership Directory & Resource Guide

With the generous support of Bacardi®, MDGLCC has printed a directory of all its members.

Over 20,000 copies will be distributed throughout South Florida. You can obtain a copy at the MDGLCC’s office and LGBT Visitor Center (sponsored by MetLife) located at 1130 Washington Avenue in Miami Beach.

This is THE book that the entire community will refer to for its goods, services, lodging, and restaurants.

“WHERE TO SHOP, STAY, PLAY IN SOUTH FLORIDA!”

Support Our Members Always

Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce

Clarity Business Magazine is a quarterly publication of the MDGLCC. Each issue has a theme, as well as subsequent information relevant to current interests and activities. Content is provided by members with the unique perspective of the community.

Acceptance of articles is based on availability.

The Voice of LGBT Business & its Allies in Miami-Dade 1130 Washington Avenue 1st Floor North Miami Beach, FL 33139 [email protected] T: 305.673.4440 F: 305.673.8883

Steven N. Adkins President / CEO [email protected]

Jorge Richa Marketing / Program Director [email protected]

Michael Vita Secretary / Treasurer [email protected]

Michael Aller Board Member

George Neary Board Member

Madeleine Paredes Web Master

Stivaly Arenas Social Media

Organizational Listings

R+M Collaborative - It’s all about the Brand

Joe Robertson, EDITOR Clarity Business Magazine & ClarityMag.com [email protected]

Tana Martin Llinás, CREATIVE DIRECTOR

As a community chamber (versus a civic chamber), we encourage both our gay and gay-friendly family to support those who support us. One of the benefits of membership in MDGLCC is the knowledge that a $7 billion local LGBT market searches our roster of members first when making purchase decisions about goods and services. With a list of over 500 companies comprising our membership, more likely than not you will find what you are looking for.

As corporate America looks to diversify its revenue stream, the LGBT market is increasingly being looked to for growth. The best way we can make the greatest impact is to speak with our pocketbooks and use Chamber Members whenever possible.

“ The truest measure of a man, indeed of a person, is not whom he lays down with but what he stands up for.” Charles M. Blow – Columnist, New York Times, 2/11/12

HOTBOX

Winter Party • March Miami Beach Gay Pride • April Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival • April/May Aqua Girl • May Sizzle Miami • May Miami Beach Bruthaz Conference • July White Party • November

MiamiandBeaches.com

Every encounter. Every moment. Every escapade.No place stirs passion like Miami.

Go to MiamiLGBT.com for a free LGBT Vacation Guide.

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the pride issue - microsoft · and the “community service” award from the south florida...

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